Dust on a motor is not only a cleanliness issue. It can insulate hot surfaces, restrict airflow and indicate a process leak that changes the local hazard.
| Observation | Immediate action | Follow-up evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Fins/screens covered | Clean by approved method | Before/after photos and temperature trend |
| Repeated local pile | Find release or airflow source | Corrective-maintenance record |
| Damaged seals/entries | Isolate and inspect suitability | Ex inspection disposition |
| Rising temperature | Check load, cooling and layer | Operating data at comparable duty |
Set a site-specific interval
Inspect often enough to understand deposition between cleaning cycles. Record substance, layer location, depth method, motor load and ambient. Do not infer a universal safe layer from a generic checklist.
Protect markings, glands, seals and flamepaths during cleaning. Afterward verify fan movement, drains, entries and earth connections before return to service.
Related reading: dust explosion motor selection and motor cooling methods.